As the legislative season kicks off around the U.S., FFA members can visit their state legislatures and advocate for agriculture and agricultural education.
Many states have a specific FFA Day at the capital (or roundhouse) designed to promote citizenship in students while building character and patriotism.
Meeting with legislators offers FFA members practical and firsthand experience in the democratic process. It helps them understand how laws are created, legislators’ role, and policies’ impact on their communities.
Interacting with legislators allows FFA members to build valuable connections. These connections can be beneficial for future collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and gaining insights into the legislative aspects of agriculture.
FFA members can contribute to shaping agricultural policies by sharing their experiences, insights, and perspectives with legislators. Their firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by the agriculture sector can be influential in the policymaking process.
February is also recognized as Career and Technical Education Month in states such as Arkansas. On Thursday, Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders met with FFA members and other CTE program students at the State Capitol in Little Rock.
On Thursday, FFA members from around New Mexico gathered at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe. Members learned about the legislative process, connected with government officials, and shared stories about their experiences in FFA.
On Jan. 25, 500 members, educators, volunteers, and officers met with the state’s General Assembly in Richmond, Virginia. During a special introduction by Delegate Robert Orrock, Sr., students were given an overview of the history of agriculture education in FFA’s founding state.
In Iowa, more than 700 high school FFA members from 118 different chapters visited the state capitol in Des Moines last week as part of the 39th Annual FFA Legislative Symposium and FFA Day.
Texas FFA Day at the Capitol and the Texas FFA Foundation LEAD Experience are held on Feb. 22 and 23. However, the Texas FFA’s state officers and other CTE programs met in Austin last week for a day of capitol tours and meetings with leaders alongside nine other CTE organizations.
Keep an eye out as other sessions around the country invite FFA members to participate in legislative sessions around the country.